This
renowned Siva mandir like its proud counterpart in Myson of the very
same Champa country has a glorious history of its own. Its
reputation rests upon the celebrated Saivate rulers, who perpetuated
the glory of Indian religion and brought colourful laurels to
Saivism in particular. This is the major one of the temple group
patronised and maintained by the rulers from the end of the 4th
century and onwards. It is a matter of great gratification to learn
that when the Hindu empire suffered or eclipsed temporarily due to
the formidable military expeditions of Kambhujas, the temples were
demolished, but some of the theist rulers on re-conquest, renovated
and restored them to former glory; some times the images of rare
beauty and lingas of infinite sanctity were received as booty from
the defeated, who once seized them by force.

This
temple group contains many shrines built for the principal gods of
the Hindu pantheon, but Siva mandirs out number the others, for,
Siva was the tutelary god of the rulers, country and people. Having
enjoyed the royal patronage, their dimensions are imposing,
architectural beauty awesome, and sculptural artistry is emulation
worthy. .

This
lies in Ponagar - one of major cities of the Champa of South
Vietnam.